The protein encoded by this gene is secreted and then cleaved to form the 10 aa luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) also known as gonadoliberin-1 and prolactin release-inhibiting factor also known as GnRH-associated peptide 1. LHRH stimulates the release of luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormones which are important for reproduction. Two transcript variants encoding the same protein have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq Jan 2010]